The Russian-born founder and CEO of Telegram, Pavel Durov, announced on Monday that he had returned to Dubai after months of legal restrictions in France.
Durov was arrested at an airport near Paris in August and placed under formal investigation, which included a ban on leaving the country. The investigation relates to alleged criminal activity on Telegram, the encrypted messaging platform he founded.
“The process is ongoing, but it feels great to be home,” Durov said, referring to his return to Dubai.
Expressing gratitude to the French authorities, his legal team, and Telegram’s staff, Durov emphasized the company’s commitment to security and compliance.
“I want to thank the investigative judges for letting this happen, as well as my lawyers and team for their relentless efforts in demonstrating that, when it comes to moderation, cooperation, and fighting crime, for years Telegram not only met but exceeded its legal obligations,” he said.
